Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) – Unit 1 Full Notes
1.1 Overview of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)
IKS refers to traditional systems of knowledge in India covering philosophy, science,
technology, medicine, arts, and governance. It is rooted in the Vedas, Upanishads,
Smritis, Sutras, and Shastras. Knowledge was seen as holistic, combining logic, ethics,
and application for societal welfare.
Philosophy in IKS:
Six classical schools (Darshanas): Nyaya (logic), Vaisheshika (atomism), Samkhya (mind
& matter), Yoga (discipline), Mimamsa (rituals), Vedanta (ultimate reality).
Science & Technology in IKS:
- Mathematics: Zero, decimal system, algebra, trigonometry. - Astronomy: Aryabhata’s
planetary calculations. - Medicine: Ayurveda (Charaka Samhita), surgery (Sushruta). -
Metallurgy: Delhi Iron Pillar. - Architecture: Vastu Shastra, Harappan town planning.
Computational Thinking – Sutras & Smritis:
- Sutras: Short rules/formulas like algorithms (e.g., Ek■dhikena P■rvena). - Smritis:
Rulebooks for law, ethics, governance (e.g., Manusmriti, Yajnavalkya Smriti). In CS
analogy: Sutras = algorithms; Smritis = documentation/manuals.
1.2 Logical Frameworks in IKS
Nyaya System:
Focuses on logic, inference, and reasoning. Four valid sources of knowledge (Pramanas):
perception, inference, comparison, and verbal testimony.
Vaisheshika System:
Explains categories of reality (Padarthas). Reality is atomic: substances, qualities, actions,
universality, individuality, and relations. Similar to data classification in computing.
1.3 Vedic Mathematics and Algorithms
Rediscovered by Bharati Krishna Tirthaji. Based on 16 Sutras. Features: speed, simplicity,
mental calculation, algorithmic patterns.
Examples:
- Ek■dhikena P■rvena: Square numbers ending in 5 → 75² = 5625. - Nikhilam Sutra:
Multiplying near base numbers → 98 × 97 = 9506. - Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam: General
multiplication → 23 × 14 = 322.
Applications:
Used in computer science for fast multiplication, VLSI design, FPGA circuits, encryption,
and AI-based optimizations.
1.4 Binary and Positional Number Systems in Vedic Mathematics
- Binary: Pingala’s Chandashastra used Laghu (0) and Guru (1) for poetic meters (early
binary system). - Positional: Indians developed base-10 with place value and zero
(Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, Bakhshali manuscript). Modern computers rely on these
principles for binary arithmetic and digital storage.
1.5 Speed Computing Techniques and Modern Algorithms
Vedic Maths reduces calculation steps and enables parallel logic. Modern applications
include: - Neural network computations - Data compression - Cryptography (fast modular
arithmetic) - Google TPU parallel processing (similar to Urdhva-Tiryagbhyam).
1.6 Data Representation and Language: Panini’s Ashtadhyayi
Panini (500 BCE) wrote Ashtadhyayi with ~4000 grammar rules. Features: recursion,
meta-rules, rule-based language structure. It is comparable to programming language
syntax and compiler design (BNF notation). Applications: NLP, machine translation,
compilers, AI-driven language models.
1.7 Formal Rules and Grammar as Computation – Chandasshastra
Pingala’s Chandasshastra (2nd century BCE) studied poetic meters and prosody.
Introduced a binary-like system (laghu = 0, guru = 1). Applications: pattern recognition in
AI, speech/text processing, digital music encoding, rhythm analysis in linguistics.
Summary of Unit 1
IKS integrates philosophy, science, and technology. Sutras act like algorithms, Smritis like
rulebooks. Nyaya & Vaisheshika show logical frameworks, Vedic Maths shows speed
computing, Panini’s grammar informs NLP, and Chandasshastra demonstrates early
binary systems. These ancient systems form the foundation for modern computer science
and AI.
